Therapeutic methods and compositions involving isoflavones

ABSTRACT

Therapeutic methods of treatment, compositions and foodstuffs are described which contain isoflavone compounds described by general formula (I), in which Z is H, R 1  is H, or R A CO where R A  is C 1-10 alkyl or an amino acid, R 2  is H, OH, or OR B  where R B  is an amino acid, or COR A  where R A  is as previously defined, W is H, A is H or OH, and B is selected from (a), (b), (c), or W is H, and A and B taken together form a six-membered ring selected from (d), or W, A and B taken with the groups with which they are associated comprise (e), or W and A taken together with the groups with which they are associated comprise (f) and B is (g) wherein R 3  is H, COR A  where R A  is as previously defined, CO 2 R C  where R C  is C 1-10  alkyl, or COR B  where R B  is as previously defined, R 4  is H, COR D  where R D  is H, OH, C 1-10  alkyl or an amino acid, CO 2 R C  where R C  is as previously defined, COR E  where R E  is H, C 1-10  alkyl or an amino acid, COOH, COR C  where R C  is as previously defined, or CONHR E  where R E  is as previously defined, R 5  is H, CO 2 R C  where R C  is as previously defined, or COR C OR E  where R C  and R E  are as previously defined, and where the two R 5  groups are attached to the same group they are the same or different, R 6  is H or hydroxy C 1-10  alkyl, X is preferably O, but may be N or S, and Y is (h) where R 7  is H, or C 1-10  alkyl.

This invention relates to therapeutic uses, methods, compounds, formulations, drinks and food stuffs involving containing, comprising and/or including certain isoflavone compounds.

The isoflavone compounds according to this invention are described by general formula I.

in which

-   Z is H, -   R₁ is H, of R_(A)CO where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, -   R₂ is H, OH, or OR_(B) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A),     where R_(A) is a previously defined, -   W is H, A is H or OH, and B is selected from -   W is H, and A and B taken together form a six membered ring selected     from -   W, A and B taken with the groups with which they are associated     comprise -   W and A taken together with the groups with which they au associated     comprise     and B is     wherein -   R₃ is H, COR_(A) where R_(A) is as previously defined, CO₂R_(C)     where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or COR_(B) where R_(B) is as previously     defined, -   R₄ is H, COR_(D) where R_(D) is H, OH, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid,     CO₂R_(C) what R_(C) is as previously defined, COR_(E) where R_(E) is     H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, COOH, COR_(C) where R_(C) is as     previously defined, or CONHR_(E) where R_(E) is as previously     defined, -   R₅ is H, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is as previously defined, or -   COR_(C)OR_(E) where R_(C) and R -   are as previously defined, and where the two R₅ groups we attached     to the same group they are the same or different, -   R₆ is H or hydroxy C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, -   X is preferably O, but may be N or S, and -   Y is     where R₇ is H, or C₁₋₁₀ alkyl.

Preferably the compounds of the formula I are selected from:

wherein

-   R₈ is COR where R_(D) is as previously defined, -   R₉ CO₂R_(C) or COR_(E) where R_(C) and R_(E) are as previously     defined, -   R₁₀ is COR_(C) or CORCOR_(E) where R_(C) and R_(E) are as previously     defined, -   R₁₁ is H or OH, -   R₁₂ is H, COOH, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) and is as previously defined,     or CONHR_(E) where R_(E) is as previously defined, -   R₁₃ is OH, OR_(B) where R_(B) is as previously defined, or COR_(A)     where R_(A) is as previously defined, -   R₁₄ is H, or COR_(A) where R_(A) is as previously defined, -   R₁₅ is COR_(A) where R_(A) is as previously defined, -   R₁₆ is H, COR_(B) or CO₂R_(C) where R_(B) and R_(C) are as previous     defined, -   R₁₇ is H or hydroxy C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, -   R₁₈ is H or C₁₋₁₀ alkyl,     and “     ” represents either a single bond or a double bond.

Alkyl groups may be straight or branched chains. C₁₋₁₀ alkyl preferably contains from 1 to 5 carbons, more preferably methyl, ethyl or propyl.

Certain of the above compounds may be referred to by the names dihydrodaidzein (compound 1 where R₈ is H), dihydrogenestein (compounds 2 and 5), dehydro-O-desmethylangolensin (compound 11), tetrahydrodaidzein (compound 8), equol and dehydroequol (compound 10), O-desmethyl-angolensin (ODMA—compound 13), and 6-hydroxy-O-desmethylangolensin (6-hydroxy-ODMA—compound 14).

It has surprisingly been found by the inventors that compounds of the formula 1, and more specifically compounds of the formulae 1 to 19 have particular utility and effectiveness in the treatment, prophylaxis, amelioration defense against, and/or prevention of menopausal syndrome including hot flushes, anxiety, and depression, mood swings, night sweats, headaches, and urinary incontinence; osteoporosis, premenstrual syndrome, including fluid retention, cyclical mastalgia, and dysmenorrhoea; Reynaud's Syndrome; Reynaud's Phenomenon; Buergers Disease; coronary artery spasm; migraine headaches; hypertension; benign prostatic hypertrophy; breast cancer; uterine cancer; ovarian cancer; testicular cancer, large bowel cancer; endometrial cancer; prostatic cancer; uterine cancer; atherosclerosis; Alzheimers disease; inflammatory diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohns disease; rheumatic diseases including rheumatoid arthritis; acne; baldness including male pattern baldness (alopecia hereditaria); psoriasis and diseases associated with oxidant stress including cancer, myocardial infarction stroke, arthritis, sunlight induced skin damage or cataracts.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for the treatment, prophylaxis, amelioration, defence against, and/or prevention of menopausal syndrome including hot flushes, anxiety, and depression, mood swings, night sweats, headaches, and urinary incontinence; osteoporosis; premenstrual syndrome, including fluid retention, cyclical mastalgia, and dysmenorrhoea; Reynaud's Syndrome; Reynaud's Phenomenon; Buergers Disease; coronary artery spasm; migraine headaches; hypertension; benign prostatic hypertrophy; breast cancer; uterine cancer; ovarian cancer; testicular cancer; large bowel cancer; endometrial cancer; prostatic cancer; uterine cancer; atherosclerosis; Alzheimers disease; inflammatory diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohns disease; rheumatic diseases including rheumatoid arthritis; acne; baldness including male pattern baldness (alopecia hereditaria); psoriasis and diseases associated with oxidant stress including cancer, myocardial infarction stroke, arthritis, sunlight induced skin damage or cataracts which comprises administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of one or more compounds of the formula I:

where R₁, R₂ Z, W, A and B are as previously defined, either alone or in association with one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers and/or excipients.

Preferably, one or more compounds of the formulae 1 to 19 may be used in the treatment, prophylaxis, amelioration of menopausal syndrome including hot flushes, anxiety, and depression, mood swings, night sweats, headaches, and urinary incontinence; osteoporosis; premenstrual syndrome including fluid retention, cyclical mastalgia, and dysmenorrhoea; Reynaud's Syndrome; Reynaud's Phenomenon; Buergers Disease; coronary artery spasm; migraine headaches; hypertension; benign prostatic hypertrophy; breast cancer; uterine cancer; ovarian cancer; testicular cancer; large bowel cancer; endometrial cancer; prostatic cancer; uterine cancer, atherosclerosis; Alzheimers disease; inflammatory diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohns disease; rheumatic diseases including rheumatoid arthritis; acne; baldness including male pattern baldness (alopecia hereditaria); psoriasis and diseases associated with oxidant stress including cancer, myocardial infarction stroke, arthritis, sunlight induced skin damage or cataracts (for convenience hereafter referred to as the “therapeutic indications”). Cancer, myocardial infarction, stroke, arthritis, sunlight induced skin damage and cataracts are generally regarded to be associated with oxidant stress. This invention includes the treatment of diseases associated with oxidant stress.

A second aspect of the present invention is the use of compounds of the formula 1 for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment, amelioration, defence against, prophylaxis and/or prevention of one or more of th therapeutic indications. It is particularly preferred that one or more compounds of the formulae 1 to 19 are employed in the treatment, prophylaxis, amelioration, defence against, and/or prevention of said indications.

A third aspect of the present invention is use of one or more compounds of the formula 1 in the treatment, amelioration, defence against, prophylaxis and/or prevention of one or more of the therapeutic indications. Compounds of the formulae 1 to 19 are particularly preferred.

A fourth aspect of the present invention comprises an agent for the treatment, prophylaxis, amelioration, defence against and/or treatment of the therapeutic indications which comprises one or more compounds of the formula 1 either alone or in association with one or more carriers or excipients. Compounds of the formulae 1 to 19 are particularly preferred.

A fifth aspect of the invention is a therapeutic composition which comprises one or more compounds of the formula 1 in association with one or more pharmaceutical carriers and/or excipients. It is preferred that the compositions comprise one or more compounds of the formulae 1 to 19.

A sixth aspect of the present invention is a drink or food-stuff, which contains one or more compounds of the formula 1. Preferably the food stuff contains one or more compounds of the formulae 1 to 19.

A seventh aspect of the present invention is a microbial culture or a food-stuff containing one or more microbial strains which microorganisms produce one or more compounds of the formula 1. Preferably said microorganisms produce one or more of the compounds of the formulae 1 to 19.

An eighth aspect of the present invention relates to one or more microorganisms which produce one or more compounds of the formula 1. Preferably the microorganism is a purified culture, which may be admixed and/or administered with one or more other cultures which produce compounds of the formula 1. The compounds of the formula 1 preferably are selected from one or more of compounds of the formulae 1 to 19.

In a further aspect this invention is directed to compounds of the formula 1. Preferably said compounds comprise compounds of the formulae 1 to 19.

Compounds of the present invention have particular application in the treatment of diseases associated with or resulting from estrogenic effects androgenic effects, vasolidatory and spasmodic effects, inflammatory effects and oxidative effects.

The amount of the compound of the formula 1 which is required in a therapeutic treatment according to the invention will depend upon a number of factors, which include the specific application, the nature of the particular compound used, the condition being treated, the mode of administration and the condition of the patient. In general, a daily dose per patient is in the range of 0.1 mg to 2 g; typically from 0.5 mg to 1 g; preferably from 50 mg to 200 mg.

Compounds of the formula 1 may be in a manner and amount as is conventionally practised. See, for example, Goodman and Gilman, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 1299 (7th Edition, 1985). The specific dosage utilised will depend upon the condition being treated, the state of the subject, the route of administration and other well known factors as indicated above.

The production of a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of the therapeutic indications herein described (for convenience hereafter referred to as the “active compounds”) are typically admixed with one or more pharmaceutically or veterinarially acceptable carriers and/or excipients as are well known in the art.

The carrier must, of course, be acceptable in the sense of being compatible with any other ingredients in the formulation and must not be deleterious to the subject. The carrier or excipient may be a solid or a liquid, or both, and is preferably formulated with the compound as a unit-dose, for example, a tablet, which may contain from 0.5% to 59% by weight of the active compound, or up to 100% by weight of the active compound. One or more active compounds may be incorporated in the formulations of the invention, which may be prepared by any of the well known techniques of pharmacy consisting essentially of admixing the components, optionally including one or more accessory ingredients.

The formulations of the invention include those suitable for oral, rectal, optical, buccal (for example, sublingual), parenteral (for example, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intradermal, or intravenous) and transdermal administration, although the most suitable route in any given case will depend on the nature and severity of the condition being treated and on the nature of the particular active compound which is being used.

Formulation suitable for oral administration may be presented in discrete units, such as capsules, cachets, lozenges, or tablets, each containing a predetermined amount of the active compound; as a powder or granules; as a solution or a suspension in an aqueous or non-aqueous liquid; or as an oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsion. Such formulations may be prepared by any suitable method of pharmacy which includes the step of bringing into association the active compound and a suitable carrier (which may contain one or more accessory ingredients noted above). In general, the formulations of the invention are prepared by uniformly and intimately admixing the active compound with a liquid or finely divided solid carrier, or both, and then, if necessary, shaping the resulting mixture such as to form a unit dosage. For example, a tablet may be prepared by compressing or moulding a powder or granules containing the active compound, optionally with one or more accessory ingredients. Compressed tablets may be prepared by compressing, in a suitable machine, the compound of the free-flowing, such as a powder or granules optionally mixed with a binder, lubricant, inert diluent, and/or surface active/dispersing agent(s). Moulded tablets may be made by moulding, in a suitable machine, the powdered compound moistened with an inert liquid binder.

Formulations suitable for buccal (sublingual) administration include lozenges comprising the active compound in a flavoured base, usually sucrose and acacia or tragacanth; and pastilles comprising the compound in an inert base such as gelatin and glycerin or sucrose and acacia.

Compositions of the present invention suitable for parenteral administration conveniently comprise sterile aqueous preparations of the active compounds, which preparations are preferably isotonic with the blood of the intended recipient. These preparations are preferably administered intravenously, although administration may also be effected by mean of subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intradermal injection. Such preparations may conveniently be prepared by admixing the compound with water or a glycine buffer and rendering the resulting solution sterile and isotonic with the blood. Injectable formulations according to the invention generally contain from 0.1% to 60% w/v of active compound and we administered at a rate of 0.1 ml/minute/kg.

Formulations suitable for rectal administration are preferably presented as unit dose suppositories. These may be prepared by admixing the active compound with one or more conventional solid carriers, for example, cocoa butter, and then shaping the resulting mixture.

Formulations or compositions suitable for topical administration to the skin preferably take the form of an ointment, cream, lotion, paste, gel, spray, aerosol, or oil. Carriers which may be used include Vaseline, lanoline, polyethylene glycols, alcohols, and combination of two or more thereof. The active compound is generally present at a concentration of from 0.1% to 0.5% w/w, for example, from 0.5% to 2% w/w. Examples of such compositions include cosmetic skin creams.

Formulations suitable for transdermal administration may be presented as discrete patches adapted to remain in intimate contact with the epidermis of the recipient for a prolonged period of time. Such patches suitably contain the active compound as an optionally buffered aqueous solution of, for example, 0.1 M to 0.2 M concentration with respect to the said active compound.

Formulations suitable for transdermal administration may also be delivered by iontophoresis (see, for example, Pharmaceutical Research 3 (6), 318 (1986)) and typically take the form of an optionally buffered aqueous solution of the active compound. Suitable formulations comprise citrate or bis/tris buffer (pH 6) or ethanol/water and contain from 0.1 M to 0.2 M active ingredient.

The active compounds may be provided in the form of food stuffs, such as being added to, admixed into, coated, combined or otherwise added to a food stuff The tern food stuff is used in its widest possible sense and includes liquid formulations such as drinks including dairy products and other foods, such as health bars, desserts, etc. Food formulations containing compounds of the invention can be readily prepared according to standard practice.

Compounds of the present invention have potent antioxidant activity and thus find wide application in pharmaceutical and veterinary uses, in cosmetics such as skin crams to prevent skin ageing, in sun screens, in foods, health drinks, shampoos, and the like.

It has surprisingly been found that compounds of the formula 1 interact synergistically with vitamin E to protect lipids, proteins and other biological molecules from oxidation. Accordingly, a further aspect of this invention provides a composition comprising one or more compounds of the formula I, vitamin E, and optionally a pharmaceutically, veterinarially or cosmetically acceptable carriers and/or excipient.

Therapeutic methods, uses and compositions may be for administration to humans or animals, such as companion and domestic animals (such as dogs and cats), birds (such as chickens, turkeys, ducks), livestock animals (such as cattle, sheep, pigs and goats) and the like.

Compounds of the formula I may be prepared as follows:

-   A. Hydrogenation of daidzein, geniestein or derivatives thereof     using palladium on calcium carbonate, as follows     -   where A′ is H or R₁ here R₁ is as previously defined R₁ and R₁₁         ad X areas previously defined. Compounds 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 may         be produced by this method. Compounds 5 to 7 are enol forms of         compounds 2 to 4. -   B. Reduction of daidzein and daidzein derivatives with sodium     borohydride as follows:     -   where R₉, and X are as previously defined. Compound 8 may be         produced by this method. -   C. Hydrogenation of daidzein and diadzein derivatives using     palladium on charcoal as a catalyst.     -   where R₁₁ and R₁₂ are as previously defined. Compound 10 may be         produced by this method. -   D. Acylation or resorcinol or derivatives thereof, followed by     dehydrogenation with lithium bromide     -   Compounds 11 and 14 may be produced by this method. Compound 12         may be produced in a similar manner. -   E. Acylation of 1, 3 and 5 trisubstituted benze with 4-hydroxyphenyl     isopropyl acid or derivatives thereof.     -   where R₁₃ and R₁₅ are as previsouly defined. Compounds 15 and 16         may be produced by this method. -   F. Compounds of the formulae 17, 18 and 19 may be prepared according     to the following reaction schemes. -   (i)     -   where R₁₁, R₁₇, and R₁₈ are as previously defined. -   G. HPLC fractionation of human urine/urine fractions of HPLC/GLC     fractionation of bacterial culture supernatant so as to give     purified compounds of the formulae 1 to 19. Product identity is     confirmed by mas spectrometry. Compounds of the formulae 1 to 19 may     be purified according to Joannou et al (1995) J. Steroid. Biochem.     Molec. Biol. 54, 167-184, which is incorporated herein by reference.

It has surprising been observed by the inventors that the presence of isoflavonoids, in bodily secretions, more particularly, isoflavonoid metabolites in the urine of subjects, is associated with a specific therapeutic response, medical condition, or absence of a specific medical condition. Determining the specific biological fingerprint of different isoflavonoids excreted by individuals enables therapeutic methods of treatment to be carried out.

Embodiments to the invention win now be described with reference to the following non-limiting Examples.

EXAMPLE 1

Daidzein and Genistein

Daidzein can be obtained by Friedel-Crafts acylation of resorcinol with 4-hydroxy-phenylacetic acid using boron trifluoride etherate as catalyst, then treated with DMF and methanesulfonyl chloride in 72% yield according to the method of Wahala's (Finnish Chem. Lett. 1989, 16, 79). Although the genistein is commercially available, it is very expensive. However, it can be synthesized by the same method as daidzein, using 1,3,5-trihydroxybenzene instead of resorcinol.

Where R is H the product is daidzein, when OH, genistein.

Dihydrodaidzein and Dihydrogenistein (Compounds 2 and 3 respectively)

Hydrogenation of daidzein and genistein using palladium on calcium carbonate as a catalyst gives dihydrodaidzein and dihydrogenistein in good yield.

Where R is H the product is dihydrodaidzein, when OH, dihydrogenistein.

Tretrahydrodaidzein (Compound 8)

Reduction of daidzein with sodium borohydride gives the title compound.

Equol derivatives (Compound 10)

Equol derivatives are obtained from hydrogenation of daidzein derivatives using palladium on charcoal as a catalyst (Finnish Chem Lett. 1989, 16, 79).

6-hydrgoxy-O-demethylangolensin (Compound 14)

4-hydroxyphenylisopropyl acid is acylated with 1,3,5-trihydroxybenzene to give the title compound.

2-dehydro-O-demethylangolensin (Compound 11)

The title compound is obtained by acylation of resorcinol then dehydrogenation as shown below.

Compounds of the formulae 17, 18 and 19 are prepared as follows:

Compounds of the formula 17 are prepared according to the following reaction scheme

where R₁₁, R₁₇ and R₁₈ are as previously defined.

Indole 1-2 is prepared as Shown above according to the method of Black et al (Aust. J. Chem. 33 (1980) pages 343-350) which is incorporated herein by reference.

Indole I-4 is obtained by the Vilsmeier reaction. Electrophilic attack at 7-C position is preferred over that at 2-C position when there is an election withdrawing group at the 3-C position. Nucleophilic addition of aldehyde with a Grignard reagent 1-3 gives the secondary alcohol which on oxidation with MnO₂ will give the ketone I-5 and in mild base compounds of the formula 17.

Compounds of the formula 18 are prepared according to the following reaction scheme.

where R₂₄, R₂₅ and R₂₆ are as previously defined.

Nucleophilic addition of 7-aldehyde indole I-4 with Grignard reagent I-5 gives alcohol I-6 which on oxidation with MnO₂ compounds of the formula 18.

Compounds of the formula 19 are prepared according to the following, reaction scheme:

where R₁₁, R₁₇ and R₁₈ are as previously defined.

EXAMPLE 2

Nitrogen and sulphur containin heterocyclic ring systems are synthesized according to the following reaction schemes:

where R′ is H or —OC₁₋₁₀ alkyl, R″ is OH or OC₁₋₁₀ alkyl, and R ′″ is H or OC₁₋₁₀ alkyl.

where R′, R″ and R′″ is as previously defined.

EXAMPLE 3 1: Synthesis of ODMA (O-Desmethylangolensin 2,4,4′-trihydroxyphenyl-α-methyldesoxybenzoin). Compound 13. 1.1: 2-(p-Methoxyphenyl)propionic Acid

A mixture of p-methoxypropiophenone (2.39 g, 14.5 mmol), 90% lead (IV)acetate (6.45 g, 14.5 mmol), triethylorthoformate (15 ml) and 70% perchloric acid (1.2 ml. 29 mmol) was heated to 55° C. for 18 h. The mixture was cooled and the triethylorthoformate removed under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in CHCl₃ and the remaining precipitate filtered off and discarded. The CHCl₃ solution was then washed with water and evaporated to yield the crude ester. This crude ester product was dissolved in a 10% KOH 1:1 water:methanol solution, which was then refluxed for 3 h. After cooling the methanol was evaporated under reduced pressure and the aqueous solution washed with diethylether (3×25 ml). The aqueous solution was acidified with 2N H₂SO₄, then washed again with diethylether (3×25 ml). The combined fractions from the second ether wash were dried (Na₂SO₄) and evaporated to give the propionic acid (1.66 g, 63%).

1.2: 2,4,4′-Trimethoxy-α-methyldesoxybenzoin

2-(p-Methoxyphenyl)propionic acid (0.39 g, 4 mmol) and 1,3-dimethoxybenzene (0.5 g, 0.5 m, 4 mmol) were mixed in polyphosphoric acid (PPA) (10 g) and the reaction mixture was mechanically stirred at 75° C. for 5 b. The reaction mixture was then allowed to cool to room temperature and mechanically stiffed for a further 12 h. The reaction was then quenched with ice water and the product extracted with CHCl₃ (3×25 ml). The CHCl₃ layer was dried (Na₂SO₄) and the solvent removed under reduced pressure. The residual crude product was purified by silica gel column chromatography (eluent 7:2 CH₂Cl₂:EtOAc) to give the pure 2,4,4′-trimethoxy-α-methyldesoxybenzoin (0.68 g, 58%)

1.3 2,4,4′-Trihydroxyphenyl-α-methyldesoxybenzoin (O-Desmethylangolensin or O-DMA)

2,4,4′-Trimethoxy-α-methyldesoxybenzoin (0.312 g 1.04 mmol) was dissolved in dry CH₂Cl₂ (10 ml). To this solution 5 equivalents of 1.0M BBr₃ in hexane (1.3 g, 5.2 ml, 5.2 mmol) was added slowly and the reaction mixture allowed to stir under N₂ at room temperature for 6 days. Reaction was quenched with ice/water and after stirring for 1 h the product was extracted with diethylether (3×25 ml). The ether layer was dried (Na₂SO₄) and the solvent removed under reduced pressure. The residual crude product was purified by silica gel column chromatography (eluent 7:1 CH₂Cl₂:EtOAc) to give the pure 2,4,4′-trihydroxyphenyl-α-methyldesoxybenzoin (0.68 g, 58%)

2: Synthesis of 4′ methoxy 6-OH-ODMA (4′methoxy6-OH—O-Desmethylangolensin 2,4,6,4′-tetrahydroxyphenyl-α-methyldesoxybenzoin)

2.1: Use of POCl₃ with Phloroglucinol and the p-Methoxy Phenyl Propionic Acid

2-(p-Methoxyphenyl)propionic acid (0.1 g, 0.55 mmol) and 1.1 equivalents of 1,3,5-trihyroxybenzene (Phloroglucinol) (0.077 g, 0.61 mmol) were dissolved in dry tetrahydrofuran (THF) (2 ml). Freashly distilled POCl₃ (1.0 ml) was added to the solution and the reaction mixture was allowed to stir at room temperature for 4 days. The reaction was then quenched with ice water and the product extracted with diethylether (3×10 ml). The ether layer was dried (Na₂SO₄) and the solvent removed under reduced pressure. The residual crude product was purified by silica gel column chromatography (eluent 7:2 CH₂Cl₂:EtOAc) to give two products namely, the ester (1) and the desired 4′methoxy-6-OH-ODMA (2).

3: Synthesis of Dihydrodaidzein (Compound 1) 3.1 Synthesis of Daidzein

Resorcinol (29 mmol) and 4 hydroxyphenyl acetic acid (29 mmol) were dissolved into freshly distilled borontrifluoride etherate (20 mol eq) under nitrogen. The resulting mixture was stirred and heated at 70° C. for overnight. The reaction was monitored by TLC (80% Et2O/Hexane). The resulting mixture was cooled down at room temperature, then N,N-dimthylformamide (46.2 mL) was added dropwise. The mixture was again heated up at 50° C. for 30 minutes, then methanesulphonyl chloride (7 mL in 10 mL DMF) was added dropwise and the resulting mixture was heated at 60-70° C. until LC (80% Et₂O/Hexane) shown that the reaction was almost finished, about 10 hours. After cooling down at room temperature, the mixture was poured into 400 mL ice-cold water. The precipitate was filtered. The filtrate was collected and dried. The cure product was recrystallised in 94% ethanol (aq) and gave a quite pure daidzein (3 g) in 44% yield. 3-2 Synthesis of Dihydrodaidzein

To a solution of daidzein (0.657 g. 2.58 mmol) in methanol (60 mL) was added 10%/Pd/C (0.657 g) carefully, following by ammonium formate (0.652 g, 10.3 mmol). The mixture was heated up to 50-60° C. and stiffed for one hour. The reaction was monitored by TLC (CH₂Cl₂/EtOAc=7:2 or 70% Et₂O/Hexane) and GC. After the reaction complete, the Pd/C was filtered and the filtrate was concentrated, which gave a crude product (0.558 g) of dihydrodaidzein as the major product and the trans/cis isomers of tetrahydrodaidzein as the minor products. The dihydrodaidzein was purified by standard procedures.

Other methods to provide dihydrodaidzein may be used such as that of Jain, A. C. and Mehta, A., J. Chem. Soc. Perkin Trans. 1, 1986, 215.

4: Synthesis of the Tetrahydrodaidzein Trans/Cis Isomers (Compound 8)

4-1 Synthesis of Tetrahydrodaidzein Trans/Cis

4-2 Synthesis of Tetrahydrodaidzein Trans/Cis

Dihydrodaidzein (0.001 g 0.004 mmol) was dissolved in 200 L of dioxane and 40 L of water. Sodium boronhydride (0.002 g 0.053 mmol) was added and the resulting mixture was stirred at room temperature for two hours. Excess sodium borohydride was then destroyed with a drop of acetic acid and the mixture was evaporated to dryness by nitrogen. The residue was extracted with EtOAc and organic layer was washed with water and then evaporated to dryness. Gas chromatography showed that most of dihydrodaidzein was converted to the tetrahydrodaidzein as confirmed by GC-MS [M⁺ 384. (G. E. Joannou, G. E. Kelly, A. Y. Reeder, M. Waring and C. Nelson J. Steroid Biochem. Molec. Biol. Vol. 54, No 3/4, pp 167-184,1995)]. Tetrahydrodaidzein was also synthesised by the reduction of dihydrodaidgein using sodium borohydride dioxane/H₂O (5:1) (Ref, G. E. Joannou, G. E. Kelly, A. Y. Reeder, M. Waring and C. Nelson. J. Steroid. Biochen. Molec. Biol. Vol.54, No 314, pp 167-184, 1995). 5: Synthesis of Dehydroequol (Compound 10)

A mixture of tetrahydrodaidzein (0.02336 g) was suspended in dry benzene (5 mL) and p toluenesullfonic acid (0.0487 g) was added to the reaction. The resulting mixture was heated up 95° C. for 35 min then the benzene was evaporated and the crude product was purified by the HPLC (MeOH/H₂O=60:40) and gave dehydroequol and equol. The dehydroequol was confirmed by H NMR, GS-MS and high resolution MS. 6: Synthesis of Dihydrogenistein (Compounds 2 and 5)

Genistein (Sigma, 0.0023 g 0.0085 mmol) was dissolved in EtOH (2 mL) and 100% Pd/C (0.0023 g) and ammonium formate (0.0027 g, 0.043 mmol) were added to the solution with stirring. The resulting mixture was stirred overnight. GC showed that all the starting material was coverted to dihydrogenistein as confirmed by GC, GC-MS and NMR data. The reduction product was purified by the HPLC.

EXAMPLE 4

The urine of volunteers is screened by way of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) as described by Kelly et al in Clinica Chemica Act (1993) 9-22, which is herein incorporated by reference). Those individuals whose urine contained greater than 0.5 μm and generally between 2.5 to 50 μm or mote are selected for further study. Faecal samples were obtained from those individuals and microbial cultures made using standard faecal culture conditions. Microbial cultures which secrete the compounds of interest are detected by way of GC-MS. Organisms which secrete at least 50 μg of each of the compounds 1 through 19 were isolated. These organisms are used in microbial fermentation to produce compounds of the formulae 1 through 19. Where the organisms are selected from one of the classes Lactobacilli, Clostridium perfringens, Bacteroids, Candida albicans and other yeasts Anaerobic cocci, Ruminococcus, Eubacterium, Peptostreptococcus, Clostridium, Bifidobacteria, Peptococcus, Streptococcus and/or Anaerobic streptococci, Gram-negative facultative bacteria, Fusobacterium they may be used directly in food compositions such as dairy formulations so as to provide compounds of the formulae 1 to 19.

EXAMPLE 5

Therapeutic formulations were prepared by admixing compounds of the formulae 1 to 19 with a soy flour bast (defatted soy flour available from Edible Enhanced Protein St Marys, Australia).

A range of pharmaceutical formulations is prepared comprising between 40 mg and 200 mg of active compound to a dosage formed.

For the purposes of this example, gelatin capsules and tablets containing 200 mg of each of the active compounds 1 to 19 are prepared in the soy flour base referred to above, or in a cholesterol free yoghurt base.

EXAMPLE 6

A. Treatment of Vascular Conditions—Menopausal Syndrome, Hot Flushes, Hypertension, Atherosclerosis and Male Impotency

Vascular reactivity studies using rat aortic rings is generally regarded as directly predictive of biological effects of candidate compounds in the treatment of the above conditions (Karapapanis, S. et al (1994) Heptology, 20, 6, 1516-1521). The inhibitory effect on restrictor responses in the aortic ring is measured in the presence of the vasoconstrictor noradrenaline according to the procedure of Karapapanis (supra). Dihydrodaidzein (Compound 1), dihydrogenestein (Compounds 2 and 5), tetrahydrodaidzein (Compound 8), ODMA (Compound 13) and equol (Compound 10) all exhibit potent inhibitory effects on responses to noradrenaline, that is, they inhibited vaso-constrictor responses.

Subsequent clinical studies are shown to demonstrate therapeutic benefits in the treatment of the above conditions using then compounds.

B. Hormone Responsive Cancer Treatment—Treatment of Hormone Related Cancers Including Breast, Ovarian, Testicular, Uterine, Endometrial and Prostatic Cancer

The activity of compounds of the present invention in inhibiting the growth of hormone responsive cancer cells were tested using the well characterised human responsive cancer cell lines K562 and HL60. The anti-cancer screening assay measured inhibition of cell proliferation which results in terminal differential cell death. Cell death is due to either apoptosis or necrosis ODMA (Compound 13) and equol (Compound 10) or potent inhibitors of growth of cell lines K563 and HL60, this result being therefore directly predictive that these compounds will inhibit the growth of hormone related cancers such as those mentioned above. Tetrahydrodaidzein (Compound 8) showed strong inhibition of cell line HL60.

Subsequent clinical studies are shown to demonstrate therapeutic benefits in the treatment of the above conditions using these compounds.

C. Antioxidant Studies—Relevant to the Treatment of Cancer; Conditions Associated with Oxidation of Cholesterol Such as Atherosclerotic Vascular Disease; Myocardial Infarction, Stroke, Heart Disease; Arthritis and Cataracts

Many studies have shown that compounds having antioxidant activity are useful therapeutics in the treatment of the above conditions (see for exampel McLaughlan et al (1995) Biochem. Soc. Trans. 23 (2) 2575; and van't Veer et al (1996) Cander Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 5 (6) 441-7)

Compounds according to this invention have antioxidant activity.

Tetrohydrodaidzein (Compound 8) and dehydroequol (Compound 10) are highly effective antioxidants. The following tests in relation to these compounds are carried out.

1. LDL Antioxidation Test—This test measures the ability of a compound to directly scavenge free radicals or to chelate transition mal. The longer the lag time, the more active the compound as an antioxidant under these conditions compared to ascorbate as a positive control. These tests were carried out according to the procedure of Esterbauer et al Free. Rod. Res. Coms. (1989) 6, 67-75. Briefly, LDL (0.25 mg/ml) is incubated with 10 μm active compound in the presence of 4 μm Cu⁺⁺, and LDL was assayed for oxidation by HPLC analysis. Results are as follows: Sample Lag Times-min % Increase Over Control Control 20 Ascorbate 50 150 Tetrahydrodaidzein >140 >600 Dehydroequol >140 >600

This significant finding shows that tetrahydrodaizein and dehydroequol are extremely potent antixoidants and therefore may be regarded as effective therapeutics in the treatment of cancer, myocardial infarction, stroke, arthritis, sunlight induced skin damage cataracts, and other conditions resulting, from oxidative damage.

2. Redox Test—This lest measures the ability of a compound to prevent LDL lipid oxidation in the presence of vitamin E. The test is a physiological test, vitamin E (α-tocopherol) is present with LDL in the blood stream, and LDL oxidation is believed to be one of the major factors of the development of atherosclerosis. The lower values, the higher the redox activity. A high redox activity suggests that the compound is capable of interacting with the α-tocopherol in the LDL, perhaps by reducing the α-tocopheroxyl radical. The test indirectly assesses the ability of a compound to synergise with α-tocopherol in human LDL undergoing mild and chemically controlled oxidation. Oxidation is measured by the accumulation of cholesterylester hydroperoxides at a time point corresponding to 20% consumption of endogenous α-tocopherol. Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT 10 μm) is used as a positive control. The redox index is measured by the relative extent of oxidation of LDL in the presence of the sample divided by the relative extent of oxidation in the absence of the test compounds. Active compounds give rise to low Redox Index. Tests were carried out according to Bowry, V. W. et al (1995) J. Bio. Chem. 270 (11) 5756-5763. Such tests show that compounds 1 to 19 synergistically interact with vitamin E to prevent oxidation of lipids, proteins, and other biological species.

By way of example dehydroequol (Compound 10) tested in this assay is shown to be a particularly superior antioxidant compared to a positive control antioxidant (BHT), the Redox Index for dehydroequol being 4.5±1.2, and that of BHT being 6.3.

The above test indicates that compounds 1 to 19, and particularly dehydroequol interacts synergistically with vitamin E to prevent oxidation. This is an important finding as vitamin E has previously been regarded as having opposing activities facilitation oxidation and decreasing oxidation of lipids and protein. Compositions containing one or more Compounds 1 to 19 and vitamin E may be used in the therapeutic treatment of cancer, myocardial infarction stroke, arthritis, sunlight induced skin damage cataracts and other conditions responsive to treatment with antioxidants.

3. Synergism with α-tocopherol (TRAA)—This test directly assesses the ability of the test sample to attenuate α-tocopheroxyl radicals in cetyltrimethyl ammonium chloride (HTAC) or SDS micelles. Ascorbate is used as a positive control. Results are expressed as the relative rate constant of decay of α-tocopheroxyl radicals in the presence of the test sample divided by the relative rate constant of decay of α-tocopheroxyl radicals in the absence of the test sample. TRAA approaching unity is considered to have poor synergistic activity, whereas active compounds show large values because they eliminate the α-tocopheroxyl radicals immediately upon nixing.

The experiments were carried out according to Witting et al (1996) J. Lipid Res., 37, 853-867. These studies show that Compounds 1 to 19, particularly dehydroequol (Compound 10), dihydrodaidzein and dihydrogenistein, interact synergistically with α-tocopherol.

4. LDL Receptor Studies—Treatment of atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, stroke and hypertension. This will establish that compounds which up-regulate the LDL receptor, lead to decreased circulating DL, and therefore reduces the prospect of atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, stroke and hypertension. Using an assay according to Stephan Z. F. and Yurachek, E. C. (1993) J. Lipid. Res. 34, 325-330, it is shown that the compounds of the formulae 1 to 19 are effective in increasing LDL uptake into liver cells, this being directly predictive of decrease of circulating LDL in the human blood stream. ODMA and equol are shown to be particularly active in this respect.

EXAMPLE 7

Treatment of Acne

An 18 year old girl with acne since puberty, with no response to the contraceptive pill or any topical cream, and who declined the use of Roacutane on safety grounds, was administered a soy isoflavone extract containing genistein, daidzein, formononetin and Biochanin A which were converted into their metabolites namely compounds 1, 2, 5, 8, 10, 11, 13 and 14 as evidenced by urine analysis. 40 mg administered twice daily resulted in marked improvement of acne condition, colour, and general appearance within two weeks.

A 40 year old man with acne since puberty, with no response to any topical cream and who declined the use of Roacutane on safety grounds, as administered a soy isoflavone extract as described above. These isoflavones were converted to their metabolites namely compounds 1, 2, 5, 8, 10, 11, 13 and 14 as evidenced by urine analysis Unexpectedly, he reported a dramatic improvement in his acne within two weeks, a change which hadn't been observed in over 20 years.

Subsequent clinical studies have shown to demonstrate therapeutic benefits in the treatment of acne utilising the above compounds.

Subsequent clinical studies are shown to demonstrate therapeutic benefits in the treatment of the above conditions.

EXAMPLE 8

A 67 year old man suffering from prostate cancer received a daily dosage of 16 mg of isoflavone extracts from clover which contained genistein, daidzein, formononetin and biochanin A. After subsequent surgery for his prostate cancer condition the pathology report on the extracted prostate tissue showed an increased incidence of apoptosis (Stephens, F. O. (1997) J. Aus. Med Assoc. 167, 3, 138-140). Analysis of this patient's urine showed the presence of aforementioned metabolites, this indicating that these compounds responsible for the amelioration of his condition in that the degenerative changes in the prostatectomy section, especially the apoptosis were indicative of androgen deprivation and typical of a response to estrogen therapy.

EXAMPLE 9

A patient group was studied comprising women who had a past history of breast cancer (who had been treated either by surgery or radiation, or both) and women who had a strong familial connection to breast cancer, that is, where their mothers or siblings had suffered from breast cancer. This study investigated whether compounds 1 through 19 administered transdermally each day through a skin patch could be used to prevent breast cancer or metastatic cancers following cancer therapy.

Patches were prepared that contained a lipophylic carrier cream which is readily absorbed through the skin. The cream comprised a glycerol cold cream which contained glycerin and peanut oil. A selected active compound from any one of compounds of the formulae 1 to 19 is mixed with the lipophylic cream such that each patch comprises 10 mg to 100 mg of active compound. The patch is applied to the skin each day and rapid absorption occurs. After two hours the patch is removed. Alternatively, the patch may be left on for a greater part of each day.

Over a one year study period it is found that this high risk group does not show any evidence of breast cancer or other metastatic cancer.

The effectiveness of this treatment is shown in another study of a similar group of high risk patients. Compounds 11, 13 and 14 are transdermally administered to patients in the same manner and amount as above. The same beneficial results are observed over a six month trial period.

EXAMPLE 10

A study of a group of patients suffering from benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) and prostatic cancer of various grades is carried out to determine the effect of administration of compounds of the formulae 1 to 19. The administration protocol was the same as for Example 3 involving daily administration of a gelatin capsule containing 200 mg of active compound. A significant decrease in the rate of production of relevant cancer markers (PSA, prostate specific antigen) is observed. Tumours are again shown to have regressed, or show no further growth. In another study a 45 year old male with BPH presented with urinary obstruction and frequency of urination. Upon taking 40 mg per day of a clover isoflavone containing extract became symptom free. Urine analysis showed the presence of the urinary metabolites described above.

A patient suffering from advanced bowel cancer is treated daily for three weeks with an intravenous infusion of 2 g of the compound of the formula 14 dissolved in sterile saline. The patient's pain and discomfort was significantly reduced, and reduction in cancer markers is observed. Progression of the tumour is also arrested over the treatment period.

A second patient suffering from the same condition is treated in the same manner as the above patient with the exception that the 2 g dose of the active compound is administered by way of bolus injection. The results obtained were the same as those discussed in the above paragraph.

In a further series of experiments a group of patients suffering from terminal bowel cancer were treated by bolus daily injections (intravenous or intramuscular) of 2 g of a compound selected from one of the formulae 1 to 19. Over the test period there is shown to be a marked reduction in pain and discomfort. Tumour markers (carcino-embryonic antigen (CEA)) are reduced as evidenced by blood analysis and tumour spread decreased.

EXAMPLE 11

A study of patients suffering from male pattern baldness was carried out. Each of the subjects received a daily application to the scalp of an inert pharmaceutical gel containing 50 mg of active material. Over the one month study period there is observed a light down or stubble appearing on the treated area. This study indicates that the compounds are effective in the treatment of hair loss and with long term application should provide hair regeneration.

Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” or the term “includes” or variations thereof, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or integer or group of elements or integers but not the exclusion of any other element or integer or group of elements or integers. In this regard, in construing the claim scope, an embodiment where one or more features is added to any of claim is to be regarded as within the scope of the invention given that the essential features of the invention as claimed are included in such an embodiment.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the invention includes all such variations and modifications which fall within its spirit and scope. The invention also includes all of the steps, features, compositions and compounds referred to or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any two or more of said steps or features. 

1. A method for the treatment or prophylaxis, amelioration, defense against, and/or prevention of menopausal syndrome osteoporosis; premenstrual syndrome male impotence: Reynaud's Syndrome; Reynaud's Phenomenon; Buergers Disease; coronary artery spasm; migraine headaches; hypertension, benign prostatic hypertrophy; breast cancer; uterine cancer; ovarian cancer; testicular cancer; large bowel cancer, endometrial cancer; prostatic cancer; leukemia; arteriosclerosis; Alzheimer's disease; inflammatory diseases; rheumatic diseases; acne; baldness; psoriasis and/or diseases associated with oxidant stress comprising administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of at least one compound of the formula I:

wherein Z is H, R₁ is H, or R_(A)CO where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₂ is H, OH, or OR_(B) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, W is H, A is H or OH, and B is selected from

W is H, and A and B taken together form a six membered ring selected from

W, A and B taken with the groups with which they are associated comprise

W and A taken together with the groups with which they are associated comprise

and B is

wherein R₃ is H, COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or COR_(B) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₄ is H, COR_(D) where R_(D) is H, OH, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, COR_(E) where R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, COOH, COR_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or CONHR_(E), where R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₅ is H, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or COR_(C)OR_(E) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl and R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, and with the proviso that where the two R₅ groups are attached to the same group they are identical or different, R₆ is H or hydroxy C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, X is N or S O, N or S, and Y is

where R₇ is H, or C₁₋₁₀ alkyl with the proviso that compounds of the formula I where R¹, W and Z are H R² is H or OH A and B taken together are a six membered ring

wherein Y is

and R₇ is H or OCH₃, are excluded, and with the proviso that where the method is a method for the treatment or prophylaxis of menopausal syndrome or premenstrual syndrome compounds of the formula I where R₁, W and Z are H, and R₂ is H or OH, A and B taken together are a six membered ring

or A is OH and B is

where Y is

R₇ is H are excluded, and with the proviso that where the method is a method for treatment of a form of cancer or rheumatoid arthritis compounds of the formula I where R₁ and W are H, Z is H or OCH₃ and R₂ is H or OH, and A and B taken together are a six membered ring of the formula

Y is

R₄ is CO₂H or CO₂CH₂CH₃, and R₇ is H are excluded.
 2. A method according to claim 1 wherein said at least one compound of the formula I is:

wherein R₈ is COR_(D) where R_(D) is H, OH, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₉ is CO₂R_(C) or COR_(E) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl and R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₀ is COR_(C) or COR_(C)OR_(E) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀alkyl and R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₁ is H or OH, R₁₂ is H, COOH, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or CONHR_(E) where R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₃ is OH, OR_(B) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₄ is H, or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₅ is COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₆ is H, COR_(B) or CO₂R_(C) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid and R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, R₁₇ is H or hydroxy C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, R₁₈ is H or C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, and “

” represents either a single bond or double bond.
 3. A method according to claim 2, wherein said method is a method for the treatment of menopausal syndrome, hypertension, arteriosclerosis, male impotence, or premenstrual syndrome, further wherein at least one compound of the formulae 1, 3, 8, 10, 11, 13 and 14 is administered to a subject in need thereof, together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.
 4. A method according to claim 2, wherein said method is a method for the treatment of breast, ovarian, testicular, uterine, large bowel, leukemia, endometrial, or prostatic cancer wherein at least one compound of the formulae 1, 8, 10, 11, 13 and 14 is administered to a subject in need thereof, together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.
 5. A method according to claim 2, wherein said method is a method for a disease associated with oxidant stress selected from the group consisting of cancer, myocardial infarction, stroke, arthritis and cataracts comprising administering to a subject in need thereof at least one compound of the formulae 1, 3, 8, 10, 13 and 14, together with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and/or excipient.
 6. A composition for the treatment, amelioration, defense against, prophylaxis and/or prevention of menopausal syndrome; osteoporosis; premenstrual syndrome; male impotence; Revnaud's Syndrome; Reynaud's Phenomenon; Buergers Disease; coronary artery spasm; migraine headaches; osteoporosis, hypertension, benign prostatic hypertrophy, breast cancer, uterine cancer; ovarian cancer, testicular cancer; large bowel cancer; endometrial cancer; prostatic cancer; leukemia; arteriosclerosis; inflammatory diseases; rheumatic diseases; acne; baldness, psoriasis and/or diseases associated with oxidant stress, comprising at least one acceptable carrier and/or excipient, and at least one compound of the formula I:

wherein Z is H, R₁ is H, or R_(A)CO where R_(A) C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₂ is H, OH, or OR_(B) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, W is H, A is H or OH, and B is selected from

W is H, and A and B taken together form a six membered ring selected from

W, A and B taken with the groups with which they are associated comprise

W and A taken together with the groups with which they are associated comprise

and B is

wherein R₃ is H, COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or COR_(B) where R_(B) is an amino acid or CORA where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₄ is H, COR_(D) where R_(D) is H, OH, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, COR_(E) where R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, COOH, COR_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or CONHR_(E), where R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₅ is H, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or COR_(C)OR_(E) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl and R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, and with the proviso that where the two R₅ groups are attached to the same group they are identical or different, R₆ is H or hydroxy C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, X is O, N or S, and Y is

where R₇ is H or C₁₋₁₀ alkyl with the proviso that compounds of the formula I where R₁, W and Z are H R₂ is H or OH A and B taken together are a six membered ring

wherein Y is

and R₇ is H or CH₃, are excluded, and with the Proviso that where the composition is for treatment or prophylaxis of menopausal syndrome or premenstrual syndrome, then compounds of the formula I where R₁, W and Z are H, and R₂ is H or OH, A and B taken together are a six membered ring

or A is OH and B is

where Y is

R₇ is H, are excluded, and with the proviso that where the composition is for treatment of a form of cancer or rheumatoid arthritis, then compounds of the formula I where R₁ and W are H, Z is H or OCH₃ and R₂ is H or OH, and A and B taken together are a six membered ring of the formula

Y is

R₄ is CO₂H or CO₂CH₂CH₃, and R₇ is H are excluded.
 7. A composition according to claim 6, wherein said at least one compound of formula I is:

wherein R₈ is CORD where R_(D) is H, OH, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₉ is CO₂R_(C) or COR_(E) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl and R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₀ is COR_(C) or COR_(C)OR_(E) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl and R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₁ is H or OH, R₁₂ is H, COOH, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or CONHR_(E) where R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₃ is OH, OR_(B) where R_(B) is an amino acid or CORA where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₄ is H, or CORA where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₅ is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid R₁₆ is H, COR_(B) or CO₂R_(C) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid and R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, R₁₇ is H or hydroxy C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, R₁₈ is H or C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, and “

” represents either a single bond or a double bond.
 8. (cancelled)
 9. (cancelled)
 10. A composition according to claim 6, wherein said at least one acceptable carrier and/or excipient is at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and/or excipient.
 11. A composition according to claim 7 wherein said at least one acceptable carrier and/or excipient is at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and/or excipient.
 12. (cancelled)
 13. A composition, according to claim 6, wherein said at least one acceptable carrier and/or excipient is at least one physiologically and/or cosmetically acceptable carrier and/or excipient.
 14. A composition according to claim 13, further comprising vitamin E.
 15. A composition according to claim 7, further comprising vitamin E, and wherein said at least one acceptable carrier and/or excipient is at least one physiologically and/or cosmetically acceptable carrier and/or excipient.
 16. A composition according to claim 13 in the form of a skin cream or gel.
 17. A composition according to claim 13 in the form of a solid dosage unit.
 18. (cancelled)
 19. A composition according to claim 6, in the form of a food stuff or drink.
 20. A composition according to claim 7, in the form of a food stuff or drink.
 21. A microorganism which produces at least one compound of the formula I:

wherein Z is H, R₁ is H, or R_(A)CO where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₂ is H, OH, or OR_(B) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, W is H, A is H or OH, and B is selected from

W is H, and A and B taken together form a six membered ring selected from

W, A and B taken with the groups with which they are associated comprise

W and A taken together with the groups with which they are associated comprise

and B is

wherein R₃ is H, COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or COR_(B) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₄ is H, COR_(D) where R_(D) is H, OH, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, COR_(E) where R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, COOH, COR_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or CONHR_(E), where R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₅ is H, CO₂R_(C) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or COR_(C)OR_(E) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl and R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, and with the proviso that where the two R₅ groups are attached to the same group they are identical or different, R₆ is H or hydroxy C₁₋₁₀ alkyl. X is O, N or S, and Y is

where R₇ is H or C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, with the proviso that said at least one compound of the formula I where R₁, W and Z are H R₂ is H or OH A and B taken together are a six membered ring

wherein Y is

and R₇ is H or CH₃, is excluded, and with the proviso that where the microorganism produces a compound for treatment or prophylaxis of menopausal syndrome or premenstrual syndrome, then said at least one compound of the formula I where R₁, W and Z are H, and R₂ is H or OH, A and B taken together are a six membered ring

or A is OH and B is

where Y is

R₇ is H is excluded, and with the proviso that where the microorganism produces a compound for treatment of a form of cancer or rheumatoid arthritis, then said at least one compound of the formula I where R₁ and W are H, Z is H or OCH₃ and R₂ is H or OH, and A and B taken together are a six membered ring of the formula

Y is

R is CO₂H or CO₂CH₂CH₃, and R₇ is H is excluded.
 22. A microorganism according to claim 21 wherein said said at least one compound of the formula I is:

wherein R₈ is COR_(D) where R_(D) is H, OH, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₉ is CO₂R_(C) or COR_(E) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl and R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₀ is COR_(C) or COR_(C)OR_(E) where R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl and R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₁ is H or OH, R₁₂ is H, COOH, CO₂R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, or CONHR_(E) where R_(E) is H, C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₃ is OH, OR_(B) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, or CORA where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₅ is COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid, R₁₆ is H, COR_(B) or CO₂R_(C) where R_(B) is an amino acid or COR_(A) where R_(A) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl or an amino acid and R_(C) is C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, R₁₇ is H or hydroxy C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, R₁₈ is H or C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, and “

” represents either a single bond or a double bond.
 23. A microbial culture or a food stuff comprising at least one microbial strain and at least one microorganism as defined in claim
 21. 24. A microbial culture or a food stuff comprising at least one microbial strain further and at least one microorganism as defined in claim
 22. 25. A method according to claim 1, wherein said menopausal syndrome is hot flushes, anxiety and depression, mood swings, night sweats, headaches, and urinary incontinence or a combination thereof; wherein said premenstrual syndrome is fluid retention and cyclical mastalgia, dysmenorrhoea, or a combination thereof; wherein said inflammatory diseases are inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohns disease, or a combination thereof; wherein said rheumatic disease is rheumatoid arthritis; wherein said baldness is male pattern baldness; and wherein said psoriasis and/or diseases associated with oxidant stress are cancer, myocardial infarction, stroke, arthritis, sunlight induced skin damage, cataracts, or a combination thereof.
 26. A method according to claim 1, wherein said X is O. 